Spring Equinox March 20, 2018

A lovely quotation from Chief Sitting Bull on spring. “Behold, my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the results of their love!"

Robin Williams on Spring. "Springtime is Mother Nature’s way of saying let’s party!"

March has roared in like a lion, and if we’re really lucky, it will roll out like a lamb. It’s the time of the vernal equinox if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, and it’s a true marker that Spring has come.

The Wheel of the Year – Occurs on or near the Spring Equinox, when day and night are equal. It is a time of balance where unnecessary things, thoughts and habits are thrown away to make room for the new. The feel-good factor about this day, however, is that the first official astrological day of spring hints that high temperatures are not far off.

An equinox is the moment in time (not a day-long event) when the Sun stands directly above the equator and day and night are of approximately equal length. For the Northern Hemisphere, the spring equinox is the moment when winter ends and spring begins, while for the Southern Hemisphere it is the moment when summer ends and fall (autumn) begins.

As the winter ends traditionally Native American people celebrate their thanks with prayers for surviving the bitter, cold days and the struggles they had to overcome. With spring everyone begins to enjoy the bounties of the earth once more, as plants and animals show new life again. The land turns green, wildlife flourishes and people are filled with anticipation for the coming of summer, the time of harvest.

It’s important to remember that the dawning of spring has been observed for a long time in many other cultures as well. Traditions vary widely from one country to the next. March 20 also welcomes Ostara which is celebrated in spring season as a way to honor the richness and wealth that Mother Nature has brought to humans and creatures. Spring is considered as the period of growth, happiness and love. In this time of a year, everything is woken up from winter and they are full of vitality.

Springtime is a wonderful season to celebrate with much merriment and shared feasts, as families gather together, dancing and enjoying the gifts of the land. Just as those in ancient times find a reason to give thanks for being here another day. Do something special to honor the fact that you are still here. Celebrations and rituals are important in our spiritual walk.

It is a time to offer thanks in prayers, celebrations and gratitude to the Great Creator who is watching and filling those who care with blessings.